If there is one book that captures the essence of the Indian capital, it is Delhi by Khushwant Singh. The book takes you on a journey through the history of the city, from its earliest days to the modern era. As you turn the pages, you are transported to a world of grandeur, beauty, and brutality, all at the same time.
Singh, a renowned writer and historian, was born in Delhi in 1915, and he spent most of his life in the city. His love for Delhi is evident in every word he writes. He has a way of bringing the city to life, making it seem like a character in its own right. Through his vivid descriptions, he paints a picture of Delhi that is both alluring and complex.
Delhi by Khushwant Singh: Parts of the novel
The book Delhi by Khushwant Singh is divided into two parts, ‘The Historical City’ and ‘The Contemporary City.’ In the first part, Singh delves deep into the history of Delhi, starting from its earliest days as Indraprastha, the capital of the Pandavas. He then takes us through the various dynasties that ruled Delhi, including the Mughals, the British, and finally, independent India.
Through his words, we get a glimpse of the grandeur and beauty of Delhi’s past. The Qutub Minar, the Red Fort, the Jama Masjid, and the Humayun’s Tomb are just a few of the many monuments that Singh writes about. He brings these monuments to life, giving them a personality of their own.
But Singh does not shy away from the darker aspects of Delhi’s history. He talks about the brutalities of the rulers, the invasions, and the massacres that took place. He talks about the destruction of temples, the forced conversions, and the atrocities committed against the people. He brings to light the fact that Delhi’s history is not just a story of grandeur but also of bloodshed and oppression.
Delhi by Khushwant Singh: Second part of the book
In the second part of the book, Singh takes us on a tour of the contemporary city. He talks about the changing face of Delhi, the politics, the people, and the culture. He writes about the emergence of ‘New Delhi’ and how it transformed the city. He also talks about the social and cultural changes that took place in the post-independence era.
His love for Delhi is evident throughout the novel Delhi by Khushwant Singh, and he captures the spirit of the city in every chapter. He talks about the people of Delhi, their warmth, their wit, and their resilience. He talks about street food, festivals, music, and art. He paints a picture of a city that is both traditional and modern, both chaotic and serene.
Delhi by Khushwant Singh is not only a love letter
But the book is not just a love letter to Delhi. Singh is also critical of the city and its problems. He talks about pollution, traffic, corruption, and inequality. He highlights the challenges that the city faces and the need for change.
Overall, Delhi by Khushwant Singh is a fascinating read. It is a book that captures the essence of a city that is both beautiful and complex. Singh’s writing is engaging, and he has a way of bringing the city to life. Whether you are a Delhiite or someone who has never visited the city, this book is a must-read. It will give you a deeper understanding of Delhi and its history, people, culture, and the challenges the city faces in the modern era.
